They’re the free programs, services, and support resources available through the military community. From financial counseling and career support to child care assistance and crisis resources, these programs can help families navigate challenges, reduce stress, and avoid costly setbacks. Here are some of the resources every military family should know about.  

Military OneSource – If there’s one resource every military family should bookmark today, it’s Military OneSource. Military OneSource provides free support, expert consultations, and confidential assistance for a wide variety of military life challenges.

• Available services include:
  • Financial counseling and money management support
  • Budget planning assistance
  • Career coaching
  • Relationship resources
  • Parenting support
  • Elder care consultations
  • PCS and transition assistance
  • Confidential non-medical counseling
• Whether you’re creating a budget, preparing for a move, exploring a new career opportunity, or navigating a major life change, Military OneSource can connect you with trusted experts at no cost. 
• Phone: 800-342-9647
• Website: militaryonesource.mil
• Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Financial Emergencies Happen – Even the most carefully planned budget can be impacted by unexpected expenses. A vehicle breaks down. Emergency travel becomes necessary. Housing costs increase unexpectedly. A family emergency arises. Military relief organizations exist to help eligible military families through these situations before financial hardship becomes overwhelming. 

• Army Emergency Relief (AER) – Army Emergency Relief provides financial assistance to eligible Soldiers and their families facing unexpected financial challenges.
  • Website: armyemergencyrelief.org 
• Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) – The Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society offers financial assistance and educational programs designed to help Sailors, Marines, and their families achieve financial stability.
  • Website: nmcrs.org 
• Air Force Aid Society (AFAS) – The Air Force Aid Society supports Airmen, Guardians, and their families through financial assistance and community support programs. 
  • Website: afas.org
• Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA) – Coast Guard Mutual Assistance provides financial and educational support programs for Coast Guard members and their families.
  • Website: cgmahq.org 
• Depending on eligibility and circumstances, assistance may be available for: 
  • Emergency travel
  • Rent or housing expenses
  • Utility bills
  • Vehicle repairs
  • Essential living expenses
  • Disaster-related needs
  • Family emergencies
• Knowing these organizations exist before a crisis occurs can save both money and stress.  

Protect Your Financial Wellness by Supporting Your Mental Wellness – Financial stress rarely exists on its own.  Major life challenges, deployments, relationship challenges, caregiving responsibilities, and mental health concerns can all impact a family’s financial well-being. That’s why military families have access to several free support resources.  

• Military and Family Life Counseling (MFLC) – Military and Family Life Counselors provide free, confidential, non-medical counseling to help military families navigate everyday challenges. 
  • Support is available for: 
    • Stress management
    • Relationship concerns
    • Parenting challenges
    • Deployment-related stress
    • Grief and loss
    • Military transitions
  • Contact your installation’s Military and Family Support Center to learn about available services.
• Installation Behavioral Health Resources – Most military installations offer behavioral health and mental health services through military treatment facilities and support centers. Taking advantage of available resources early can help prevent challenges from becoming larger issues later. 

Career Resources for Military Families – Military families often face career disruptions to PCS moves, deployments, and changing duty assignments.  Fortunately, several military-focused programs exist to help spouses and service members build long-term career success. 

• Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP) – The Military Spouse Employment Partnership connects military spouses with employer partners committed to recruiting, hiring, promoting, and retaining military spouse talent.  These employers understand military life and unique challenges military spouses face. 
• SECO Career Center – The Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO) program provides: 
  • Career coaching
  • Resume assistance
  • Interview preparation
  • Education guidance
  • Employment resources
  • Learn more through Military OneSource. 
• Investing in your career can create long-term financial stability for your family, and these resources are available at no cost. 

Child Care Support for Military Families – Child care is one of the largest expenses many families face.  Military families may be eligible for programs that help connect them with quality care and reduce out-of-pocket costs. 

• Child Care Aware® of America – Child Care Aware of America helps eligible military families access quality child care and fee assistance programs. 
  • Website: childcareaware.org
• MilitaryChildCare.com – MilitaryChildCare.com is the Department of War’s gateway for military-operated and military-subsidized child care programs worldwide. For many families, these programs can provide both financial savings and peace of mind. 
  • Website: militarychildcare.com 

Resources for Veterans – Veterans and their families have access to a wide range of benefits and services through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. 

• Department of Veterans Affairs
  • The VA offers benefits and services that support Veterans throughout every stage of life, including: 
    • Health care services
    • Mental health care
    • PTSD treatment
    • Telehealth appointments
    • Women’s health services
    • Caregiver support
    • Housing resources
    • Benefits assistance 
  • Phone: 877-222-VETS (8387)
  • Website: va.gov
  • Many Veterans are eligible for programs and services they may not realize are available, making it worthwhile to explore available benefits regularly. 

Save These Numbers Before You Need Them – Some resources are important enough to keep readily available. 

• Veterans Crisis Line – Free, confidential support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for Veterans, service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and those who support them. 
  • Call: 988, then Press 1
  • Text: 838255
  • Website: veteranscrisisline.net
• Emergency Services – If someone is in immediate danger or at risk of harming themselves or others: 
  • Call: 911
  • Visit: Your nearest emergency room

A Different Kind of Savings

At My Military Savings, we’re passionate about helping military families save money, but some of the most valuable savings don’t come from coupons, discounts, or cashback offers. They come from knowing where to turn when life becomes challenging. 

The right resource at the right time can help prevent financial hardship, reduce stress, support a career transition, strengthen a family, or provide help during a crisis. Save this guide. Bookmark it. Share it with a fellow military family, because one of the smartest investments you can make isn’t something you buy. It’s knowing how to access the benefits, programs, and support you’ve earned through military service. 

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Military Life & Family!

As a huge thank you to military families past and present, you have the opportunity to enter an amazing sweepstakes. In celebration of America’s 250th birthday, Stories of Service is giving away FIFTY $100 gift cards. And what’s even better is that if you share your story and are selected as a winner, you can pick between a Commissary or Exchange gift card.

It’s so easy to enter. Just head over to their website and tap the link, enter your info and join the celebration! You have until July 6th to enter, so don’t miss your chance.

Food-wise, I’ve been trying not to skip meals, but I need something quick. OIKOS yogurt has been clutch because I can throw in some fruit, and it actually holds me over. Starkist Tuna has been just as helpful. I can eat it with crackers and call it a day when I don’t feel like figuring out a full meal.

Drinking water is something I’m always trying to do better with, so I’ve been more consistent. MiO helps because I can switch up the flavor when I get bored, and it’s even helped my kids drink more water without always reaching for juice.

I’ve also been more mindful about what I’m drinking besides coffee and water, and Health-Ade Kombucha is something I’ll grab when I want something different without reaching for soda.

Some of the other things I keep stocked are just everyday staples that make life easier. Cottonelle is one that I don’t ever want to run out of. Bush’s Baked Beans are an easy side, and Oscar Mayer is a go-to for quick lunches when I need something fast. Honey Maid Graham Crackers have been in rotation for snacks because the kids actually eat them, and Beggin’ Strips are a must for the pup; he hears the bag and comes running every time.

I’m just trying to be consistent with what works for me. If something is easy and fits into my routine, I’m more likely to stick with it. And honestly, stocking up on the things we actually use has made a bigger difference than I expected. It saves time, cuts down extra trips, and helps me stay on budget without overthinking it.

While you’re stocking up, you can enter the Stock Up & Save Sweepstakes at MMSsweepstakes.com for a chance to win. Five winners will each receive a $100 Commissary gift card!

This program supports Operation Homefront, which helps provide relief and support to military families. Knowing that the everyday shopping I’m already doing can also give back in some way just makes it feel a little more meaningful.

There are many things you can do as a parent to prepare your teen for “The Real World”. Now, this takes patience, especially since kids think they have all the answers. Try to focus on ensuring your child can apply basic life skills, time and financial management, problem solving, and self care. 

Here are some helpful tips:

• Basic Life Skills: Driving, cooking, cleaning, doing laundry, using basic tools, and looking for a job.
• Time Management: Prioritizing tasks, studying, completing assignments on time, and using a planner.
• Financial Management: Managing a checking account/debit card, building savings/emergency fund, and budgeting.
• Problem Solving: Identifying the problem, using critical thinking skills, and developing solutions.
• Self-Care: Take breaks when stressed, disconnect from social media, take care of your physical health, and choose your friend groups wisely.

If your child will remain at home while attending college, you’ll have more time to focus on development. However, those who are getting your child ready to leave the nest will have limited time to prep before dropping them off on campus. I highly recommend starting to purchase the dorm essentials early as the costs can add up quickly. Below is a basic list of things your child could need for the dormitory.

Dorm Essentials:

• Personal/Health Items: Toiletries, towels, pillows and blankets, shower tote, shower shoes, and medications/prescriptions.
• Laundry Supplies: Detergent, fabric softener, laundry basket, and hangers.
• Room Essentials: Food storage containers, bedding, plates, utensils, alarm clock, and wall hooks. 
• Supplies: Calendar, laptop, pens/pencils, highlighters, paper, backpack, folders, and binders.
• Appliances: Coffee maker, small fan/heater, TV, and lamp.

It’s crazy how fast eighteen years seem to fly by, but early preparation will ease some stress for you as a parent and your future student. Be sure to maximize your savings by stocking up on essentials at your local Exchange and Commissary. Enjoy your time together before they head off to college and make as many great memories as you can.

Explore more with My Military Savings and Military Life & Family!

Ingredients:

• 20 oz bottle, Sprite
• 2 Cherries
• 2 tbsp Maraschino Syrup
• ½ lime wedge

Directions:

1. Fill your cup with ice or as much as desired.
2. Pour the soda over the ice.
3. Add 2 tablespoons of Maraschino syrup.
4. Add 2 cherries.
5. Add ½ lime wedge.
6. Mix with a spoon.
7. Enjoy!

This refreshing drink is just perfect for the spring or summer! My family asks to have this all of the time and I hope your family enjoys it that much as well!

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Food & Drink!

The PCS-Season Planning Timeline:
First, back-plan from your “keys by” date. Pick your “keys by” target, then work backward. Start with the moment you want to be moved in. Then, reverse engineer your timeline. For example, if you want the keys by early June, then aim to be under contract by mid-end of April. Begin serious touring and ready-to-move offers by March. This means, in February, you’ll start your prep stage (pre-approval, budget, must-haves, neighborhoods).

Why so early? That’s because even when everything goes smoothly, the path from offer to closing still includes multiple moving parts. Inspection negotiations, appraisal timing, and lender underwriting can all add time. One delay can push you into the busiest weeks of PCS season. If you want to close by summer, start seriously looking in March, not May. Then, make sure you have a solid team in place to get through this process!

If you can do one thing that lowers stress, it is this: choose people who understand military timelines. Find a realtor familiar with military families and VA transactions. A VA-friendly realtor helps you move quickly without skipping steps. They are used to coordinating video tours, remote paperwork, tight deadlines, and the reality that life can change quickly with orders.

Questions to Ask Your Realtor:
1. How many VA closings have you handled recently?
2. What appraisal-related issues come up most for VA buyers in this area?
3. How do you structure inspection deadlines and repair negotiations when the market is moving fast?
4. If we are buying from out of state, what is your plan for walkthroughs and quick decisions?

VA Loan Factors First-Time Buyers Should Know:
These are the things most military families ask early, and they can impact your timeline. Look into VA occupancy and options for being able to rent the home later. VA home loans are designed for primary residences, not investment properties. The big idea is good-faith intent to occupy the home as your main place to live.

A lot of people ask, “How long do I have to wait before I can rent it out?” There is not always one universal “wait this many months” rule. What matters most is that you planned to live there first. If PCS orders or life changes happen later, renting may be possible, but it is smart to talk to your lender early, because lenders can have extra rules on top of VA guidelines. Just remember, buy it to live in it first. If PCS orders change the plan later, confirm options with your lender early.

With a VA loan, you will have a VA appraisal. An appraisal is not the same thing as a home inspection. The appraisal supports the home’s value and checks for baseline safety and livability standards. If something comes up that does not meet those standards, it can turn into a required repair before closing. A home inspection is your deeper look at the home’s condition and systems. Even though it is not always required, it is one of the best ways to protect yourself as a first-time buyer because it helps you understand what you are walking into and what you might need to budget for. The VA appraisal helps you qualify and close. The inspection helps you buy smarter and negotiate with confidence.

More Questions to Ask Your Realtor:
1. If we need keys by ___, when should we start touring and offering?
2. What is normal here in spring…for example, days on market, multiple offers, and offer deadlines?
3. What contingencies are still realistic right now?
4. What issues are common here: drainage, flooding, termites, foundation movement?
5. What is the typical age range for roofs and HVAC in this neighborhood?
6. If we PCS in 2 to 3 years, does this area rent well?
7. What VA appraisal conditions show up most often in this market?
8. If repairs are needed, how do you usually negotiate: repairs, credits, or price adjustments?

Home Inspection Questions That Actually Help:
1. What are the top 3 safety concerns, if any?
2. What will likely cost us money in the first year?
3. What maintenance should we put on a calendar?
4. Where are the shutoffs and how do I use them?
5. Is there evidence of past leaks or moisture problems?

Treat the inspection like a lesson, not a pass/fail report. If the report flags expensive items (roof near end of life, aging HVAC), do not panic. The inspection is information. It helps you decide what you can handle, what you want to negotiate, and what you should plan for right away.

Finally, you’ve reached the home stretch. Insurance is one of the easiest places to accidentally under-prepare, especially during a PCS rush. Do this early. Confirm you understand deductibles (wind, hail, named storm, etc.) Ask what is covered and what might require separate coverage. Store policy docs and a home inventory in shared cloud storage that both spouses can access. For paper versions, store those in a fireproof/waterproof container. Your emergency fund is part of being “insurance-smart,” because not every home issue turns into an insurance claim.

Buying during PCS season does not have to feel like guesswork. Starting early, working with a realtor who understands military life, and knowing how VA loans and inspections work can help you make more confident decisions. The goal is not to do everything perfectly. It is to stay prepared enough that you can move forward with less stress and more clarity. After all the back-planning, paperwork, and decision-making, getting those keys is a big deal. Take a moment to celebrate how far you have come.

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Military Life & Family!

There are always two sides to winter, the cold side and the cozy side. One minute I’m bundling up, heading outside into the cold, about to hit the slopes and see wide open views. The next, I’m back inside, wrapped in a blanket, warming my hands around a mug and planning what snacks I’m making later while watching the Winter Sports Games. It’s the season of finding a balance and lately, I have had some help leaning into that with Gold Medal Deals.

As someone who loves being prepared (especially when the weather turns unpredictable), stocking up on everyday favorites just makes life easier. Whether it is quick pantry staples for busy days, Kleenex Tissues for cold chilly days, to comfort foods for slow nights in, or grab-and-go snacks for early mornings, these deals make it simple to keep everything on hand without overspending. It feels like setting yourself up for small wins all winter long.

What I love most is how these savings fit into my real life. Mornings start with STOK Cold Brew and International Delight Cold Foam Creamer, something easy and energizing before heading out the door. Afternoons turn into quick snack breaks or simple lunches of tuna fish and chips thanks to Starkist Tuna and a few OREOS thrown in on the side or Del Monte Sliced Peaches that don’t require a ton of effort. Evenings are all about winding down, watching the Winter Sports Games live, and creating a cozy warm meal of homemade chili with Velveeta Cheese, Bush’s Original, Simply Organic Smoked Papirika, Heinz Ketchup and a few of those little pantry essentials you normally do not think about until you really need them. It is not fancy recipes or complicated routines. It’s about making everyday moments feel just a little more effortless.

And the timing couldn’t be better. Gold Medal Deals are available now through March 22nd, which means you can refresh your pantry and home for the rest of winter and into early spring. It’s the perfect window to stock up, save money, and feel good about what you’re bringing into your routine.

There’s also a fun bonus: while you’re shopping, you can enter the Gold Medal Deals Sweepstakes at MMSSweepstakes.com for a chance to win. Five lucky winners will each receive a $100 Commissary gift card….which honestly is the ultimate pantry restock prize.

Even better, this program proudly supports Fisher House Foundation, helping provide comfort homes for military and veteran families while their loved ones receive medical care. Knowing that your everyday shopping can also help support families during some of their hardest moments makes these deals feel even more meaningful.

This winter brave the cold, stay cozy indoors, or something somewhere in between, Gold Medal Deals are a simple way to save, prepare, and make winter a little easier.

I spent under $30 grabbing a few things to romanticize the moment in a way that felt cozy and personal. Nothing over the top, just small touches that made the night feel intentional. I picked up three face mask options, a sleep eye cover, socks, and a candle. Once I got home, I also used what I already had, like my red coupe glass and some sparkling cider (or whatever floats your boat).

I made it cute by decorating my table the way I like it. Not “perfect,” not staged for anyone else, just pretty enough to make me pause and enjoy being in my own space. I lit the candle, poured my drink into the coupe glass because that instantly elevates the experience, and sat down with a book. No background noise, no constant scrolling, just silence. That quiet part was the whole reset.

After I had my calm moment, I picked a face mask and let that be the transition into full cozy mode. I love having multiple options because sometimes your skin wants hydration, sometimes it wants glow, and sometimes you just want to feel like you did something nice for yourself. I didn’t overthink it. I chose one, got comfortable, and let it do what it came to do.

For dinner, I made myself a bowl of pasta. Comfort food is self-care in my book, and I wasn’t interested in turning the night into a complicated cooking project. It was warm, simple, filling, and exactly what I wanted. To close the night out the right way, I got on the couch and binge watched Bridgerton. Blanket on, candle still burning, snack energy if you want it, and zero guilt. It was soft, cozy, and honestly the perfect end to a day that can sometimes feel heavy if you’re alone or missing your person.

Here’s what I want you to take from this…you don’t need a big budget to make Valentine’s Day feel special. You can do it with small details. A candle, a face mask, a cute glass, a quiet moment, a comfort meal, and a show you love will do. The goal isn’t to impress anyone; the goal is to create a moment that feels good to you.

If your spouse is away right now, you’re allowed to hold it down and still give yourself softness. If you’re single, you’re allowed to romance your own life without needing a reason. Either way, you deserve a night that feels warm and intentional.

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During the holidays, everything shifts. Feeding times change. Walks happen when we can squeeze them in. There are extra treats, extra people, and a lot less structure. My dog handled it well, but I could tell he missed the rhythm of normal days.

January is when we come back to ourselves. The house is quieter. The mornings are slower. And rebuilding a routine feels less like a task and more like a comfort.

One of the first things I reset was how we do meals. Instead of rushing through them or defaulting to a bowl, I started turning mealtime into something more thoughtful.

Winter limits how much time we spend outside, so mental stimulation becomes just as important as physical exercise. Feeding through enrichment has been one of the easiest ways to bring calm, focus, and structure back into our days.

Lately, I’ve been using Merrick Dry Dog Food inside puzzle feeders and enrichment toys instead of extra treats. The kibble pieces are the perfect size for snuffle mats, puzzle games, and slow feeders, and it feels good knowing I’m using his actual meals for stimulation. It turns feeding time into a moment we both look forward to, not just something to check off the list.

Our days don’t look fancy or perfectly scheduled, but they feel intentional:

• Puzzle feeders in the morning while I make coffee
• Short winter walks paired with indoor enrichment
• Rotating toys so nothing feels boring
• Evenings that end the same way every night

Rebuilding a routine in January isn’t about strict rules or doing everything “right.” It’s about paying attention. Noticing what your dog needs. Creating moments of consistency when everything else feels uncertain. For us, that meant slowing down, being more present, and finding joy in the everyday like turning a simple bowl of food into a game.

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Pets!

Supplies:

• 14 oz. Glue
• 1 Cup Hot Water
• Food Coloring
• Glitter
• 3 teaspoons Borax
• 2 Cups Hot Water

Directions:

• Put glue in a tub.
• Add in 1 cup of hot water.
• Add in your food coloring and glitter.
• Stir until smooth.

• In a separate container, dissolve 3 teaspoons of Borax in 2 cups of hot water.
• Slowly add the water into the glue mixture and stir together.
• It will goop together almost immediately.

• You may not need all the water, so pour slowly.
• Once it’s mostly gooped up, begin mixing with your hands. (This is the fun part!)

• We started with red and black food coloring, because that’s all I had, and it turned more into pink and purple, which was pretty perfect for Valentine’s Day.
• As you can see, the slime is a HUGE HIT.

My family loved making this slime recipe and I hope your family will too! Have fun getting messy!

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